PowersAs an advisory body, ASAC has no decision-making or other powers directly affecting members of the public. It does not administer any enactments or schemes.

Arrangements for outside participationASAC members are appointed by the Minister responsible for the ABS so that a broad range of views and interests is reflected in the advice that it offers to the Minister and the Statistician. Membership details are given in Appendix 1.

Persons or bodies outside the Australian Government administration may participate in the Council’s policy formulation by making representations to the Minister or the Chairperson on matters of concern to them.

Categories of documentsThe ASAC Annual Report, which is tabled in Parliament, is available from all ABS offices. Files are maintained which contain documents relating to the administration of the Council, papers discussed at Council meetings, summary records of proceedings of meetings and correspondence relating to the activities of the Council.